SUBSIDY AND SELF-PUBLISHING

Many authors want to know which subsidy publishing companies are reputable, and which ones are predatory and should be avoided. By “subsidy” I mean companies you pay to publish and distribute your book. The following advice comes from an experienced publishing consultant who has helped hundreds of authors. Note that it can be difficult to get your rights back and publish your book elsewhere, should you be unfortunate enough to have a negative experience with one of these companies.

Of course, review any contract you are offered carefully, and be sure your book receives good editing and cover design. In my experience, the more specific you are with your designer, the more effective your cover will be. Be sure to avoid “clip art,” and provide your designer with original artwork, if possible.

PUBLISHING COMPANIES BEST AVOIDED:

* Tate Publishing

* Lulu

* Xulon Press

* Outskirts Press

* Infinity Publishing

THE FOLLOWING PUBLISHERS OWNED BY OR JOINTLY RUN BY AUTHOR SOLUTIONS ARE ALSO BEST AVOIDED:

“Self-Publishing Manual” by Dan Poynter (get the latest edition of this book, and any other books by Dan Poynter).

ALSO RECOMMENDED:

The following subsidy and hybrid publishers have a good reputation. They are decent options for authors who want to hire a company to publish and distribute their book. I’m sure there are many others, and if you have a company to recommend, please send me an e-mail and tell me about your experience: